I have to say, I love doing vox pops. When you see a collection of short sound bites from people giving an opinion on an issue or story - well, those are vox pops. And what I love, is that you can never predict what is going to be said.
This week, while we were filming the links for X-Ray in Abergavenny, we also gathered vox pops on selling gold. In the programme this week we feature a viewer who sold precious gold sovereigns, only to be left thousands of pounds out of pocket. So we wanted to ask people on the street whether they'd ever sold any gold, and if so, how they went about it and what happened.
Getting the word on the street
There is nothing terribly scientific about the approach. I wander along, microphone at the ready, scanning for people who seem willing to talk to me. Some look over and smile, others I take by surprise, some spot me and give me a wide berth!
So I hedge my bets, walk up to people who've been happily going about their business, the camera is rolling, I briefly introduce myself and say I'm filming for X-Ray, and then it's straight into a few quick questions.
It's brilliant how most people are so ready and willing to give their views or share a story. I always think it can't be easy when you're stopped on the street out of the blue and someone like me starts asking you questions on subjects that can range from holiday deals to ratings websites to selling gold. But people always come up with interesting and varied answers. And I'm always slightly disappointed when the director says we've done enough.
I'll probably speak to about 15 people on one subject. Usually about four or five comments will make it to the programme, and we make sure we reflect a variety of opinions.
So if you're ever strolling down the high street and spot the X-Ray crew looking eager to talk, please stop to chat, it's not that bad, I promise!
However, if you're keen to avoid us - head down, avoid eye contact and keep your distance. Although sometimes even that doesn't put me off...
If you'd like to get in touch with the team call 03703 334334 or email [email protected]. You can also follow X-Ray on Twitter.
